Iowa Community Support Organizations, Churches & Charities for Single Mothers: The No‑Fluff 2025 Guide

Last updated: September 2025

This guide is a statewide, nonprofit-and-faith-based resource map for Iowa single mothers who need real help now. It focuses on community organizations, churches, and charities (not state or federal benefit programs). Every phone number, rule, and dollar amount below is verified with an official source and dated in the citations.

If time is tight, start with the Emergency Section and the Quick Help Box right below.

Emergency section (read this first)

• If you need food this week in Polk County (Des Moines metro): You can get a three‑day food supply once per month at any DMARC Food Pantry; “Anytime Items” are available daily. No income or residency requirement. Delivery hotline for Polk County is 1‑833‑DMARC‑20, order Mon–Wed 9 a.m.–noon for Thursday delivery. (dmarcunited.org, dmarcunited.org)
• If you’re in immediate danger from an abusive partner: Call the 24/7 Iowa Victim Service Call Center at 1‑800‑770‑1650 or text IOWAHELP to 20121. Waypoint’s 24/7 domestic violence line (Cedar Rapids region and NE counties) is 800‑208‑0388. (survivorshelpline.org, waypointservices.org)
• If you’re in a mental health/substance use crisis or need to talk now: Your Life Iowa is 24/7 — call 855‑581‑8111, text 855‑895‑8398, or chat. (yourlifeiowa.org)
• If you’re a family with kids and have nowhere to sleep in Polk County: Catholic Charities’ Emergency Family Shelter intake goes through Primary Health Care Centralized Intake — walk‑in only at 1200 University Ave #120, Des Moines; phone 515‑248‑1850. New Directions Shelter (Families Forward) also serves families with children in Des Moines at 515‑243‑7456. (catholiccharitiesdm.org, familiesforward.org)
• If you need rent/utility help in Linn County (Cedar Rapids): Salvation Army opens applications the 1st–5th each month; utility help caps are published — balances must be $500orless;maxassistance$250; screening contact by the 10th business day. Phone 319‑364‑9131. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

Quick help box

• Call or text 211 (text your ZIP to 898211) for a live specialist to find nearby churches, charities, food, rent help, diapers, legal aid, and shelter — 24/7 statewide. Toll‑free: 866‑813‑1731. (211iowa.org, uwm211.org)
• For diapers in Linn County (Cedar Rapids area): Eastern Iowa Diaper Bank gives 50 free diapers per family at monthly Community Days; program participants can receive up to 250 diapers/month via partner coupons. Address: 420 6th St SE, Cedar Rapids. (eidiaperbank.org)
• For free or low‑cost medical/dental: Eastern Iowa Health Center minimum visit cost is $25\ast \ast withslidingfee;AllCareHealthCenter(CouncilBluffs)minimumsare\ast \ast$35 medical and $55 dental; Free Clinics of Iowa offers free primary care via volunteer clinics statewide. (easterniowahealthcenter.com, allcarehealthcenter.org, fciowa.org)
• For legal help (eviction, custody, debt collection, benefits appeals): Iowa Legal Aid statewide intake 1‑800‑532‑1275, phone hours Mon–Fri 9‑11 a.m. & 1:30–3:30 p.m. (except Thu afternoon). General eligibility around 125% FPL; some projects allow higher. (iowalegalaid.org)
• For work clothes and job‑hunting support (Des Moines metro): Dress for Success Des Moines, 7025 Hickman Rd Ste 3, Urbandale. Phone 515‑288‑0130. By appointment. (desmoines.dressforsuccess.org)

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How to use this guide

• Start each section with the action item in bold.
• Scan the tables for hours, eligibility, and dollar caps.
• End of each section gives a Plan B if the first option doesn’t work.

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Table A. Fast contacts at a glance (hotlines and intakes)

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Food assistance from nonprofits and churches

Start here: If you live in or near Des Moines, the DMARC Food Pantry Network allows one full monthly food order (three‑day supply, family‑size based), plus “Anytime Items” you can get daily. No income or residency requirement. Bring ID if you can, but you won’t be turned away without it. (dmarcunited.org, dmarcunited.org)

What to know and expect

• DMARC pantries (14 sites): Once per month you receive a three‑day food supply; Anytime Items are available daily after your monthly order. Delivery hotline for Polk County: 1‑833‑DMARC‑20 (intake Mon–Wed 9–noon; deliveries on Thursday). (dmarcunited.org)
• Cedar Valley Food Pantry (Waterloo at NEIFB): Two pantry visits per calendar month. Hours: Mon–Thu 9–3; Fri 9–12. (neifb.org)
• River Bend Food Bank (eastern IA including Quad Cities & Dubuque): use the “Find a Food Pantry” tool or Mobile Pantry list; office 563‑345‑6490; main warehouse 4010 Kimmel Dr, Davenport. (riverbendfoodbank.org)
• Catholic Charities Food Pantry (Des Moines): Member of DMARC; emergency three‑day box once per month during pantry hours (M‑Th 10:00–3:30; F 9:30–12:30). 1815 Hubbell Ave; phone 515‑262‑7290. Free “food window” with produce, dairy, bread during hours. (catholiccharitiesdm.org)

Table B. Food networks and limits (2025)

Required documents

• Usually none for emergency food. Some sites ask for basic intake and ID if you have it. DMARC explicitly says no income or residency requirements. (dmarcunited.org)

Real‑world tip

• DMARC delivery fills fast — call right at 9 a.m. Mon–Wed. If you can visit, “Anytime Items” can stretch your groceries between monthly orders. (dmarcunited.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Try nearby county networks (River Bend, HACAP). For homebound moms in Polk County, use DMARC delivery. If transportation is the issue in Des Moines, DART fares are $1.75\ast \ast (daypass\ast \ast$4), with half‑fare programs available; tokens can be more affordable. (ridedart.com)

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Diapers, baby items, and family supplies

Start here (Cedar Rapids/Linn): Eastern Iowa Diaper Bank gives 50 free diapers per family during “Community Days” (last Wednesday monthly). Participants connected to YPN/Eastern Iowa Health Center/HACAP can redeem coupons for up to 250 diapers per month. Address: 420 6th St SE, Cedar Rapids. (eidiaperbank.org)

Other baby/parenting support

• Mary’s Helping Hands (Des Moines metro): Free baby clothing and essentials for pregnancy through age 2. Address: 4950 Pleasant St, Suite B, West Des Moines. Phone 515‑225‑3827. By appointment; check posted hours for drop‑ins. (maryshelpinghandsiowa.org)

Table C. Diaper and baby item help

Required documents

• Diaper Bank: none for Community Days; program participation for higher monthly amounts. Mary’s Helping Hands schedules through a referral/appointment — call ahead. (eidiaperbank.org, maryshelpinghandsiowa.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask your pantry whether they stock infant supplies (many DMARC sites and Catholic Charities carry diapers/formula when available). (catholiccharitiesdm.org)

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Rent and utility help (churches & charities)

This section lists only community/faith groups, with clear amounts where the organization publishes them.

Start here (Linn County):

• Salvation Army Cedar Rapids — Online “Application for Financial Assistance” opens the 1st–5th of each month. Utilities: balance must be ≤ $500\ast \ast ,maxassistance\ast \ast$250; rent help depends on affordability and proof of a one‑time emergency; screening response by the 10th business day. Phone 319‑364‑9131, 1000 C Ave NW. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

Other Iowa Salvation Army examples with published caps (availability varies by funding)

• Waterloo: “Rent & Utility Assistance” up to $200 within a 12‑month period if eligible and funds are available. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Burlington (Des Moines County): Rent, water, or utilities — cap $100 per person/family, once every 14 months; first‑come, first‑served. Phone 319‑753‑2038. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Johnson County (Iowa City): Rent/mortgage, first month’s rent/ deposit, and utilities listed (no amounts published); check local office for caps and required landlord W‑9. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

Other faith/community rent help

• St. Vincent de Paul – Des Moines: Food/clothing/furniture plus financial help when funds allow; pantry access once every 15 days (two locations: 1426 6th Ave and 500 Army Post Rd). Call 515‑282‑8327 (Ext. 140) for 6th Ave or 515‑282‑8328 (Ext. 230) for Army Post. (svdpdsm.org)
• House of Hope (Waterloo): Transitional housing and case management for single mothers; call 319‑232‑3823 (845 W 4th St). Fee: none listed. (search.ne211.org)
• Waypoint Housing Services (Cedar Rapids & region): Coordinated Entry, diversion, rapid rehousing and prevention; housing line 319‑366‑7999 or 1‑833‑739‑0065. (waypointservices.org)

Table D. Published rent/utility caps (examples — local corps vary)

Eligibility & documents (typical)

• Government ID if you have it; current bill/eviction notice; lease with landlord contact/W‑9 for rent; proof of the emergency (e.g., paid car repair receipt or medical off‑work note); proof of income. Cedar Rapids Salvation Army lists these in detail online. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

Timelines to expect

• Cedar Rapids SA: Apply between the 1st–5th; screening result by end of the 10th business day; payment timing depends on fund processing and landlord/utility response. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call 211 to identify additional parish funds or community funds in your county. Ask about coordinated entry numbers for homelessness prevention (e.g., Waypoint’s CE lines). (211iowa.org, waypointservices.org)

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Shelters and family-safe options (nonprofit- and church‑run)

Start here (Polk County families with children):

• Catholic Charities Emergency Family Shelter (Des Moines): 10 rooms; families stay together; intake via Primary Health Care Centralized Intake (walk‑in only). Phone 515‑248‑1850; shelter phone 515‑282‑1235. (catholiccharitiesdm.org)
• New Directions Shelter (Families Forward, Des Moines): Emergency shelter and services for families with children; phone 515‑243‑7456. (familiesforward.org)
• Central Iowa Shelter & Services (adults 18+): 150 emergency beds; stays up to 90 days; 24/7/365; 1420 Mulberry St; phone 515‑284‑5719. (centraliowashelter.org)

What to bring

• Photo ID if you have it, Social Security cards or numbers if available, any court custody paperwork, school info for kids, and meds. (Shelters will intake without all documents; case managers help you replace them.)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask about temporary hotel placements through local coordinated entry partners (availability varies). If turned away due to capacity, call 211 immediately to document the crisis and request alternatives. (211iowa.org)

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Health care that won’t wreck your budget

Start here (Eastern Iowa)

• Eastern Iowa Health Center (Cedar Rapids): Sliding fee; minimum visit cost $25 (medical/dental/behavioral/OB/pediatrics). Phone 319‑730‑7300 (main). (easterniowahealthcenter.com)
• All Care Health Center (Council Bluffs): Sliding fee; minimum $35medical\ast \ast and\ast \ast$55 dental. Phone 712‑256‑6589. (allcarehealthcenter.org)
• Free Clinics of Iowa: Network of 30+ volunteer‑run clinics providing free primary care to uninsured/under‑insured patients throughout Iowa — search locations online. (fciowa.org)

Real example

• A mom in Cedar Rapids can book EIHC and pay the $25minimumforasickvisit;ifsheneedsadentalcleaning,AllCare’spostedminimumis$55. Always ask about lab/x‑ray costs. (easterniowahealthcenter.com, allcarehealthcenter.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call Your Life Iowa for help navigating behavioral health care (they’ll connect you to local providers that offer reduced fees). (yourlifeiowa.org)

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Getting to work, interviews, and appointments

• Dress for Success Des Moines: Professional clothing and job‑readiness support; by referral/appointment; 515‑288‑0130, 7025 Hickman Rd, Suite 3, Urbandale. (desmoines.dressforsuccess.org)
• DART (Des Moines transit) — fares & discounts: Local route fare $1.75\ast \ast ,DayPass\ast \ast$4; Half‑Fare and Ride to Thrive programs cut costs about in half for eligible riders; tokens available (10 for $17.50).ParatransitBusPlusfare\ast \ast$3.50** per trip; approved Bus Plus riders can ride fixed routes free with ID. Customer service 515‑283‑8100. (ridedart.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Ask St. Vincent de Paul or Salvation Army case managers for a bus pass or gas card when available; policies vary by location and funding. (svdpdsm.org)

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Money help for special situations

• Able Up Iowa (formerly Iowa Able): Affordable small‑dollar loans for assistive tech, home safety repairs, employment tools; most loans capped at $2,500\ast \ast (upto\ast \ast$10,000 for AT; waitlist possible); interest 0–9% depending on eligibility; Credit Builder Loans are $500\ast \ast withmonthlypayment\ast \ast$44.95; requires basic income proof and IDs. Phone 515‑292‑2972, 130 S Sheldon Ave, Ames. (search.211iowa.org, vistashare.com, search.ne211.org)
• Iowa Legal Aid: Statewide civil legal support for low‑income Iowans; general income guideline ~125% FPL; intake 1‑800‑532‑1275 with posted hours. (iowalegalaid.org)
• Waypoint (Cedar Rapids & NE counties): Domestic violence survivor services (24/7 at 800‑208‑0388), housing navigation and prevention programs. (waypointservices.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work

• Call 211 to identify local micro‑loan programs (some community organizations offer $100–$500 credit‑builder loans) or look into MDC Iowa’s small‑dollar and micro‑business loans if you’re starting a side gig. (mdciowa.org)

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Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

• Food now (Polk): DMARC monthly order + daily Anytime Items; delivery hotline 1‑833‑DMARC‑20 (Mon–Wed morning intake). (dmarcunited.org)
• Diapers (Linn): 50 free at Community Days; up to 250/month with partner coupons. (eidiaperbank.org)
• Rent/Utilities (Cedar Rapids): Apply to Salvation Army 1st–5th; utilities up to $250\ast \ast towardbalances\ast \ast \le$500. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Family Shelter (Polk): Intake at PHC — 515‑248‑1850 (walk‑in only). (catholiccharitiesdm.org)
• Legal (statewide): Iowa Legal Aid 1‑800‑532‑1275 (posted intake hours). (iowalegalaid.org)

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Application checklist (print and keep in your bag)

Bring as many of these as you can; you can still ask for help if you don’t have everything.

• Photo ID for you (and partner if applying together).
• Proof of address (lease, letter from landlord, or mail).
• Proof of income for last 30 days (pay stubs, benefits letters).
• Eviction/utility shutoff notices, current bill, or lease (with W‑9 details if landlord help is needed).
• Proof of one‑time emergency (car repair receipt, off‑work doctor note, unexpected medical bill). Required by Salvation Army Cedar Rapids for rent help. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Birth certificates or Social Security numbers for kids (if available).
• Bank statement (if asked) and a phone number where you can be reached.

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Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting until the disconnect/eviction date. Many programs need a few business days to process payment. Apply early (e.g., SA Cedar Rapids screens by 10th business day). (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Not documenting the emergency. For rent help, be ready to show proof of the unexpected cost that made you fall behind (receipt, statement, off‑work note). (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Skipping the pantry because you “don’t qualify.” DMARC and many pantries have no income/residency requirement. Use them to free cash for rent and utilities. (dmarcunited.org)
• Missing intake time windows. For example, SA Cedar Rapids applications only accepted the 1st–5th monthly. Mark your calendar and apply the first morning. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

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Diverse Communities: tailored help and where to go

• LGBTQ+ single mothers: One‑on‑one DV and housing support through Waypoint (inclusive services) and statewide victim hotline; legal name/gender change guidance is available via Iowa Legal Aid where eligibility is met. (waypointservices.org, iowalegalaid.org)
• Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Able Up Iowa offers affordable loans for assistive tech and home modifications (most loans up to $2,500\ast \ast ,ATupto\ast \ast$10,000). Ask your FQHC (EIHC, All Care) about sliding fees and care coordination. (search.211iowa.org, easterniowahealthcenter.com)
• Veteran single mothers: CISS and many shelters prioritize veteran services; call Your Life Iowa for mental health navigation, and ask 211 for local VSO contacts and nonprofit SSVF providers in your county. (centraliowashelter.org, 211iowa.org)
• Immigrant/refugee single moms: Catholic Charities (Archdiocese of Dubuque) provides affordable immigration legal services (free consults; sliding fee after); mental health counseling on a sliding scale; multiple languages available. (search.211iowa.org, search.ne211.org)
• Tribal citizens (Meskwaki Nation – Tama area): 211 can route you to tribal programs and local coordinated entry points for rent/utility help; Waypoint covers nearby counties. (211iowa.org, waypointservices.org)
• Rural moms with limited transport: Use Mobile Pantries (River Bend, NEIFB) and DMARC delivery (Polk). Ask 211 about church delivery volunteers in your county. (riverbendfoodbank.org, neifb.org, dmarcunited.org)
• Single fathers raising kids: All resources in this guide serve parents regardless of gender — bring custody paperwork if relevant (shelters/pantries won’t require it for food).
• Language access: Catholic Charities lists multiple languages; Your Life Iowa offers Spanish and will connect you to services; 211 uses interpretation to serve most languages. (search.211iowa.org, yourlifeiowa.org)

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Resources by region (scan by where you live)

• Des Moines/Polk County
  • DMARC Food Pantries & Delivery (1‑833‑DMARC‑20); pantry map and rules online. (dmarcunited.org)
  • Catholic Charities Food Pantry (1815 Hubbell; 515‑262‑7290) and Emergency Family Shelter (intake via PHC 515‑248‑1850). (catholiccharitiesdm.org)
  • St. Vincent de Paul (1426 6th Ave; 500 Army Post Rd), pantry every 15 days; call for financial help availability. (svdpdsm.org)
  • Central Iowa Shelter & Services (adults): 150 beds; up to 90‑day stays. (centraliowashelter.org)
  • Dress for Success Des Moines (Urbandale): 515‑288‑0130. (desmoines.dressforsuccess.org)
• Cedar Rapids/Linn County
  • Salvation Army Cedar Rapids rent/utility help (published caps; see above); 319‑364‑9131. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
  • Eastern Iowa Diaper Bank (50 diapers at Community Days; up to 250/month with partner coupons). (eidiaperbank.org)
  • Waypoint: Housing lines 319‑366‑7999 / 833‑739‑0065; DV 24/7 800‑208‑0388. (waypointservices.org)
  • HACAP Food Reservoir pantry network and mobile distributions. (hacap.org)
• Waterloo/Black Hawk County
  • Cedar Valley Food Pantry (NEIFB): 2 visits/month; 1605 Lafayette; 319‑235‑0507. (neifb.org)
  • House of Hope (single mothers): 319‑232‑3823, 845 W 4th St. (search.ne211.org)
  • Salvation Army Waterloo (rent/utility up to $200/12 months). (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Eastern Iowa & Quad Cities
  • River Bend Food Bank pantry finder & mobile pantries; main 563‑345‑6490; 4010 Kimmel Dr, Davenport. (riverbendfoodbank.org)
  • Salvation Army Quad Cities housing prevention; call Davenport 563‑324‑4808. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

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10 Iowa‑specific FAQs (with numbers)

1. How often can I get a full pantry order in Des Moines?

• Once per calendar month across the DMARC network, plus “Anytime Items” daily. Delivery orders taken Mon–Wed 9 a.m.–noon at 1‑833‑DMARC‑20; delivered Thu. (dmarcunited.org)

2. How many diapers can I get at Eastern Iowa Diaper Bank?

• 50 per family at monthly Community Days; up to 250/month for program participants with partner coupons. (eidiaperbank.org)

3. What are Salvation Army’s posted utility limits in Cedar Rapids?

• Balance must be ≤ $500\ast \ast ;maxassistance\ast \ast$250; apply 1st–5th monthly; response by 10th business day. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

4. Is there a published cap in Waterloo for rent/utility help?

• Yes. Up to $200 within a 12‑month period if funds are available and eligibility is met. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

5. I’m in Burlington (Des Moines County) — what are the limits?

• Salvation Army lists $100 per person/family, once every 14 months, first‑come, first‑served. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)

6. What’s the minimum I’ll pay at low‑cost clinics?

• Eastern Iowa Health Center minimum $25\ast \ast (slidingfee).AllCareHealthCenterminimum\ast \ast$35 medical and $55 dental. (easterniowahealthcenter.com, allcarehealthcenter.org)

7. How much are DART fares?

• Local route $1.75\ast \ast perride,DayPass\ast \ast$4; Half‑Fare and Ride to Thrive discounts available; tokens 10 for $17.50\ast \ast .ParatransitBusPlus\ast \ast$3.50 per trip. (ridedart.com)

8. Where do families with kids go for shelter in Polk County?

• Catholic Charities Emergency Family Shelter intake at Primary Health Care Centralized Intake (walk‑in; 515‑248‑1850). (catholiccharitiesdm.org)

9. How long can an adult stay at Central Iowa Shelter & Services?

• Up to 90 days; 150 emergency beds; open 24/7/365. (centraliowashelter.org)

10. What are Iowa Legal Aid’s intake hours and number?

• 1‑800‑532‑1275, Mon–Fri 9–11 a.m. & 1:30–3:30 p.m. (except Thu afternoon); eligibility generally up to 125% FPL. (iowalegalaid.org)

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“What if this doesn’t work?” fallback ladder (keep this list)

• Try the next nearest Salvation Army corps; caps and funding windows differ by county (Waterloo $200/12mos;Burlington$100/14mos; Linn utility cap $250). (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Ask St. Vincent de Paul for an in‑home/phone assessment — they often co‑fund with other churches when grants are tight; pantry every 15 days can free cash for bills. (svdpdsm.org)
• Call 211 and ask for “Coordinated Entry” in your county for homelessness prevention funds or diversion (Waypoint posts lines for its region). (waypointservices.org)
• If safety is the barrier (DV), call 800‑208‑0388 (Waypoint) or 1‑800‑770‑1650 (Iowa Victim Service Call Center) to plan a safe move and connect to confidential resources. (waypointservices.org, survivorshelpline.org)

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Resource list (official links, phones, addresses)

• United Way 211 Iowa — statewide help finder (call 211 or 866‑813‑1731; text ZIP to 898211): 211 Iowa — search and contact options. (211iowa.org)
• Salvation Army (statewide gateway): Find Iowa corps and services — then choose your local unit. Des Moines Area Command (info & services): 515‑282‑3599; Clive Service Center, 1400 NW 100th St, Clive. Cedar Rapids Corps: 319‑364‑9131, 1000 C Ave NW; apply for monthly assistance here: Salvation Army Cedar Rapids — Apply for Financial Assistance. Waterloo Corps: Rent & Utility info (up to $200/12mo). Burlington Corps caps: Overcome Poverty — Burlington. (salvationarmyusa.org, centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Catholic Charities Diocese of Des Moines — pantry & family shelter: Food Pantry hours and location (1815 Hubbell), 515‑262‑7290; Emergency Family Shelter info + PHC intake details: EFS overview, shelter phone 515‑282‑1235. (catholiccharitiesdm.org)
• Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Dubuque — immigration legal services, counseling, housing communities; general line 800‑772‑2758; Contact & services. Note: They do not run a rental assistance program; they direct you to 211/coordinated entry. (catholiccharitiesdubuque.org)
• DMARC Food Pantry Network (Polk): Get Help hub + delivery hotline, phone 515‑277‑6969; Delivery hotline 1‑833‑DMARC‑20 (M–W 9–noon). (dmarcunited.org, dmarcunited.org)
• Northeast Iowa Food Bank (Waterloo): Cedar Valley Food Pantry hours & 2‑visit limit, 319‑235‑0507, 1605 Lafayette St. (neifb.org)
• River Bend Food Bank (eastern IA/Quad Cities): Find a Pantry / Mobile Pantries, 563‑345‑6490, 4010 Kimmel Dr, Davenport. (riverbendfoodbank.org)
• Waypoint (Cedar Rapids/NE counties): Housing lines 319‑366‑7999 / 833‑739‑0065; DV 24/7 800‑208‑0388; address 318 5th St SE, Cedar Rapids: Contact page. (waypointservices.org)
• House of Hope (Waterloo; single mothers): 319‑232‑3823, 845 W 4th St; Contact & details. (houseofhopeccd.org)
• Dress for Success Des Moines: 515‑288‑0130, 7025 Hickman Rd Ste 3, Urbandale — Contact & hours. (desmoines.dressforsuccess.org)
• Eastern Iowa Diaper Bank (Cedar Rapids): Community Days & program info, 420 6th St SE; partner numbers listed on site. (eidiaperbank.org)
• Mary’s Helping Hands (Des Moines metro): 515‑225‑3827, 4950 Pleasant St Suite B, West Des Moines — Contact page. (maryshelpinghandsiowa.org)
• Iowa Legal Aid: 1‑800‑532‑1275 — Contact & intake hours. (iowalegalaid.org)
• Your Life Iowa: 855‑581‑8111 call; 855‑895‑8398 text; Find Help Near You locator. (yourlifeiowa.org)

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Reality checks, tips, and timelines

• Pantry rules vary across Iowa — DMARC has a standardized monthly order + daily Anytime Items; Cedar Valley Food Pantry uses a 2‑visits/month rule; other partners set their own limits. Always check the site before you go. (dmarcunited.org, neifb.org)
• Salvation Army locations are independent on caps and windows. Cedar Rapids posts utility caps and a firm 1st–5th intake window; Waterloo and Burlington publish different caps. Save documentation and apply early in the month. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Expect 2–10 business days for many payments to reach landlords/utilities after approval. If you’re close to shutoff, ask the provider to note “pledge pending” once the charity confirms assistance.

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Tables you can screenshot

Table E. Low‑cost care and clinics (minimums where posted)

Table F. Transportation at a glance (Des Moines)

Table G. Example Salvation Army caps (verify locally)

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About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

This guide uses official sources from Iowa community charities, food banks, and established nonprofits (e.g., DMARC, Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, Waypoint, Free Clinics of Iowa). It is produced based on our Editorial Standards, with source links to official pages, regular updates, and clear boundaries about what we can and cannot assist with. We are not a government agency, and individual outcomes can vary.

Last verified September 2025; next review April 2026. Found an update or error? Email info@asinglemother.org — we investigate and correct within 48 hours per our policy. (asinglemother.org)

Disclaimer

• Program details, eligibility, and dollar caps can change without notice. Always verify by calling the organization or checking the linked official page.
• Health and safety: For medical or mental health crises, call 911, 988, or Your Life Iowa (855‑581‑8111). This site does not provide medical, legal, or financial advice.
• Security: Do not email Social Security numbers or bank info to anyone. When applying online, use only the official links in this guide. If a site looks suspicious, stop and call the phone number listed here to confirm.

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Citations (selected)

• DMARC monthly order/Anytime Items, delivery hotline and schedule. (dmarcunited.org)
• Cedar Valley Food Pantry limits and hours. (neifb.org)
• River Bend Food Bank pantry finder and contacts. (riverbendfoodbank.org)
• Your Life Iowa 24/7 contacts and locator. (yourlifeiowa.org)
• Waypoint DV line and housing contacts. (waypointservices.org)
• Salvation Army Cedar Rapids application window and utility caps. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Salvation Army Waterloo/Burlington caps. (centralusa.salvationarmy.org)
• Catholic Charities DM pantry and shelter info (PHC intake). (catholiccharitiesdm.org)
• Central Iowa Shelter & Services capacity and stay length. (centraliowashelter.org)
• Eastern Iowa Diaper Bank amounts. (eidiaperbank.org)
• Dress for Success DM contact/location. (desmoines.dressforsuccess.org)
• Eastern Iowa Health Center $25 minimum; All Care Health Center minimums. (easterniowahealthcenter.com, allcarehealthcenter.org)
• Iowa Legal Aid intake hours and general income rule. (iowalegalaid.org)
• Able Up Iowa loan amounts and credit builder details. (search.211iowa.org, vistashare.com, search.ne211.org)
• DART fares and discounts. (ridedart.com)

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Before you go: If a link is broken or a phone number changed, please tell us at info@asinglemother.org so we can fix it quickly for other Iowa moms.

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Learn more:

1. Food Pantry Network – DMARC United
2. Get Help – DMARC United
3. Iowa Victim Service Call Center
4. Domestic Violence | Counseling | Advocacy | Cedar Rapids, IA
5. Your Life Iowa | Your Life Iowa
6. Emergency Family Shelter – Catholic Charities
7. New Directions Shelter | Families Forward
8. Apply for financial assistance – Cedar Rapids
9. Home – 211 Iowa
10. Contact 211 Iowa – United Way Of The Midlands
11. Community Days – Eastern Iowa Diaper Bank
12. Sliding Fee – Eastern Iowa Health Center
13. Payment Options – All Care Health Center
14. Free Clinics of Iowa | Healthcare Services | Volunteer | Donate | Find A Clinic
15. Contact Us | Iowa Legal Aid
16. Contact | Dress for Success Des Moines
17. Delivery – DMARC United
18. Cedar Valley Food Pantry | Programs | Northeast Iowa Food Bank
19. GET HELP: Find Food – River Bend Food Bank
20. Food Pantry – Catholic Charities
21. Find Food Near You | Hawkeye Area Community Action Program (HACAP)
22. DART Bus Fares – Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority
23. Contact Us — Mary’s Helping Hands
24. Contact 1 — Mary’s Helping Hands
25. Equip Families – Waterloo
26. Overcome Poverty – Burlington
27. Overcome Poverty – Johnson County Salvation Army
28. About – St. Vincent de Paul of Des Moines | SVdP Des Moines
29. HOUSE OF HOPE | HOUSE OF HOPE – WATERLOO
30. Need Help Now? | Waypoint
31. 24 Hour Emergency Shelter in Des Moines, IA | CISS
32. Additional Resources | Your Life Iowa
33. HOME MODIFICATION AND REPAIR LOANS | ABLE UP IOWA
34. https://www.vistashare.com/forms/v2/intake/c49fbe52657847b99094bab1f678eb5d/
35. CREDIT BUILDER LOANS AND COACHING | ABLE UP IOWA
36. Iowa Legal Aid
37. INCUBATE MICROLENDING | MDC Iowa
38. More than a Homeless Shelter | What We Do | CISS
39. IMMIGRATION LEGAL SERVICES | CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF DUBUQUE
40. MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING | CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF DUBUQUE
41. GET HELP: Mobile Food Pantries – River Bend Food Bank
42. Mobile Food Pantry | Programs | Northeast Iowa Food Bank
43. Finding support in Iowa just got easier | Your Life Iowa
44. Food Pantry Locations – DMARC United
45. Provide Housing – Quad Cities
46. Demoines and Central Iowa Area Command | Salvation Army Area Commands
47. Catholic Charities | Contact Us | Dubuque, IA
48. Contact Us | Homelessness | Domestic Violence | Cedar Rapids, Iowa
49. Contact – House of Hope
50. Pay half the cost to ride DART | DART – Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority
51. Paratransit | DART – Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority
52. Local Resource Guide for Single Mothers – aSingleMother

🏛️More Iowa Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Iowa

• 📋 Assistance Programs
• 💰 Benefits and Grants
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Child Support
• 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
• ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
• 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
• 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
• 🎓 Education Grants
• 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
• 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
• 🔧 Job Training
• ⚖️ Legal Help
• 🧠 Mental Health Resources
• 🚗 Transportation Assistance
• 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
• ⚡ Utility Assistance
• 🥛 WIC Benefits
• 🏦 TANF Assistance
• 🏠 Housing Assistance
• 👶 Childcare Assistance
• 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
• 🚨 Emergency Assistance
• 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
• 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
• 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
• 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
• 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
• 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
• 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
• 👩‍💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
• 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
• 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
• 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
• 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
• 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery